Giving and the brain

Ever heard the saying, “it is better to give than to receive”? Well from the neurological perspective and the perspective of health, both mental and physical, that is absolutely the case. During this time of giving and togetherness, let us reflect on just how this season affects us mentally. 

You see when you give, your brain releases chemicals that make you feel good. Endorphins are responsible for that “feel good” feeling and oxytocin is released to give a feeling of inner peace and tranquillity. And it’s not just the chemical effects. Your brain activates and wires up the circuits that are responsible for pleasure, like the anterior cingulate and prefrontal cortex. Then these areas begin to activate the areas responsible for social connection, which further drives the pleasure centers of the brain and wires us up to feel happy and fulfilled. 

All of this brain activity then helps to relax your body and mind and promote overall health. Generosity has shown to lower blood pressure, improve the stress response, decrease both anxiety and depression and makes huge changes in self esteem. 

So pay attention to how your generosity makes you feel this season and also allow others to give, and accept graciously to allow them that same feeling.